How can I get tar off of car leather?

Question

Somehow, my dad got tar on his leather seats in his car. Is there any way to get it off without also damaging the leather seats? We've heard of ice (works for gum, don't think it can do the same here), and googone so far (which can leave a greasy residue on the leather). Are there any good options for this?

Answer 1

There is a product called "bug and tar remover" that will do the job nicely with no gas smell or residue left over.  If some residue is left, some leather conditioner should do the trick to remove it.

Answer 2

Gasoline, or turpentine will do the trick. Just use a rag or a cotton swab to get at the tar, without getting any solvent on the leather.

Answer 3

Actually, a little gas on a rag will do the job nicely. The smell will dissipate quickly.